Shillong, May 21: Despite significant investments exceeding ₹32 crore in skill development programs, mere training is insufficient for long-term success, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said.
In his address during the Skillerate, 2026 programme held in Tura on Thursday, he said many individuals who completed their training reported that they lacked essential tools and equipment necessary for starting their own businesses. “An automobile technician may complete training successfully, but without a toolkit, opening a workshop or servicing vehicles becomes extremely difficult,” he said.
In this situation, he said the government has taken steps to not only offer training but also essential toolkits and start-up support, fostering immediate productivity and self-employment. “This program is about more than just tool distribution; it focuses on creating dignity, confidence, and livelihood opportunities for our youth,” the chief minister said.
He said that the government is now focused on addressing the missing links in skill training, ensuring that proper support systems and market linkages are in place for trained individuals, ultimately empowering Meghalaya’s youth.
Furthermore, he spoke about the government’s partnerships with private training institutions and stakeholders to strengthen the quality of skill development programmes.
Skillerate was organised by the Department of Labour, Employment & Skill Development in collaboration with the CM Skills Mission and the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS).
During the programme, 34 work orders aimed at equipping 4,830 trainees were distributed under Skills Meghalaya and Supporting Human Capital Development in Meghalaya (SHCDM), with a total work order of ₹16, 59, 56, 334.
Under Skills Meghalaya, 28 work orders were allocated to train 3,930 trainees, with a total value of ₹12,04,35,044. Simultaneously, the SHCDM issued 6 work orders intended for 900 trainees, valued at ₹4, 55, and 21,290.
In addition to training, the initiative also prioritizes entrepreneurship by distributing startup tools worth ₹44, 72,287 to 798 beneficiaries across diverse trades. These tools cater to various livelihood sectors, including plumbing, automotive service, gardening, farming systems, masonry, mobile phone repair, and mushroom cultivation.
